Two monks profess first vows at Saint Meinrad Archabbey

Benedictine Brothers James Jensen, left, and William Sprauer pose at Saint Meinrad after professing temporary vows on Aug. 6. (Submitted photo)

Benedictine Novices Matthew Sprauer and Bradley Jensen professed temporary vows as monks of Saint Meinrad Archabbey in St. Meinrad in a liturgy in the monastery’s church on Aug. 6.

Their profession of temporary vows marks the end of a year of prayer and study of the Benedictine way of life. As is the custom during the profession of vows, each was assigned a religious name. Novice Matthew will now be known as Brother William. Novice Bradley will be known as Brother James.

Brother William, 29, is from Piqua, Ohio, and was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Centerville, Ohio.

He is a 2006 graduate of Ohio University with a bachelor’s degree in computer science. He has more than five years of experience in software development for the defense industry.

Brother James, 30, is a native of Iowa City, Iowa, where he was a member of St. Mary’s Parish.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Iowa and a master’s degree in accounting science from Northern Illinois University. He passed the Certified Public Accountant exam, and worked in corporate finance before coming to Saint Meinrad Archabbey.

Temporary vows are typically for three years. This period offers a continuing opportunity for the monk and the monastic community to determine whether monastic life is, indeed, the true vocation for this individual. †

The Criterion

September 27, 2013

Two monks profess first vows at Saint Meinrad Archabbey

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